Produced with a grant from AT&T

Get Your Money’s Worth

Save money on long distance service by enrolling in a calling plan that fits your habits. Consider how often and what time you call, how long you talk, and where you call (in-state, state-to-state or internationally). Request written material from companies and compare their rates to your calling patterns before you sign on.
Look for simplicity and a competitive rate. Most companies offer “flat rate” plans. One is a single per-minute rate that is good anytime. This will probably save you money if you make mostly daytime calls. Another kind of flat rate plan charges two rates: one for weekdays and one for all other times. This can save money if you make most of your long distance calls at night or on weekends. If you call other countries a lot, ask about discount calling plans that would save you money on international calls.

Buying all of your telecommunications services from one company can be a good value for some consumers, but it may be cheaper to forego the package deal and buy only the services you need.

It’s that time of year. The trees and flowers are blooming, the sun is shining and crooks come knocking at your door. Spring brings out a lot of things, including people who travel from city to city leaving a trail of defrauded homeowners in their wake. They are everyone from roofers who do nothing to driveway resurfacers who put down black gook that leaves your driveway and yard a mess and a hole in your wallet. Door-to-door sales can be quite legitimate so don’t think we mean everyone who comes knocking is a crook, but you do need to take some precautions so you aren’t defrauded. If someone wants to do work on your home ask for references and check them out. If the person says the offer is only good today, don’t fall for it. If the individual claims to be working in the neighborhood, ask where and check to see if they have done a good job. Don’t let the robins chirping lull you into springtime euphoria. Check out the offer before you write the check.